US · International contemporary art platformFrom September 24 to 27, 2026, the Independent 20th Century art fair took place at the Breuer building, now operated by Sotheby’s. This edition was notable for its significant expansion—approximately 75% larger than previous years. The fair brought together around 57 exhibitors and showcased works by over 130 artists, offering a broad overview of 20th-century art.
One of the highlights was the presentation by Lévy Gorvy Dayan, which focused on works by Yves Klein from the early 1960s. Their display included Klein’s Blue Rain installation and several of his Cosmogonies, paintings marked by natural forces such as rain and wind.
The fair also emphasized the artistic connection between Klein and Lucio Fontana. Both artists were noted for their engagement with light, nature, and the exploration of physical space, as well as their efforts to push the boundaries of traditional painting.
The origins of Independent 20th Century were also recalled. In its early days, the organization hired curator Cecilia Alemani, who had just completed her master’s degree at Bard College. She was the only employee at the time, working with limited resources and a large exhibition space.
Over nearly two decades, the fair has grown from these modest beginnings to its current scale at the Breuer building. This growth reflects a combination of ambition and resourcefulness that has shaped the fair’s development.
The 2026 edition’s expansion demonstrates the fair’s ongoing commitment to presenting a diverse range of 20th-century art, providing collectors and audiences with access to significant works in a prominent setting.
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